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County Durham Soldier Killed In Afghanistan

A British soldier, shot dead by a man wearing Afghan police uniform, has been named as Lieutenant Edward Drummond-Baxter from County Durham.

He was killed alongside 28 year old Lance Corporal Siddhanta Kunwar of 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles.

29 year old Lt Drummond-Baxter was on his first deployment to Afghanistan.

Both soldiers were attached to 40 Commando Royal Marines and were at a meeting, with Afghan uniformed policemen, at Check Point Prrang in Nahr-e Saraj when one of the men opened fire.

Lt Drummond-Baxter deployed to Afghanistan on September 30th.

His mother Helen, father David and sister Emily issued a statement saying: "Edward was fiercely loyal and totally sincere to his parents, sister and many friends who are mourning him today, both in the UK and around the world. He loved the Gurkhas and died among friends doing the job that he wanted to do.''

He was born in Peterborough and went on to gain a BSc degree in psychology from University College London.

While at university he was an active member of his local Territorial Army regiment, the Honourable Artillery Company.

He then spent two years working for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, including a posting to Japan before joining the British Army.

After attending Sandhurst military college, he was commissioned into the 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles in December 2010.

Lieutenant Colonel David Robinson, commanding officer 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles, said: "Our battalion has lost a character, a true gentleman and an inspirational leader in Lieutenant Edward Drummond-Baxter.

Edward or 'DB', as he was often known, was one of life's true personalities.

His Gurkha soldiers noticeably responded to his dedication to them but also to his great wit and humour. They would follow him anywhere.

His natural empathy and rapport for his soldiers was evident to everyone.

It was never a surprise to find him spending additional time with them, whether seeking to further their professional development or just enjoying their company. The tragedy of his loss is beyond words.''